Sergeant William Cross, Washington State Department of Corrections, Washington

Sergeant William Cross

Washington State Department of Corrections, Washington

End of Watch Friday, June 15, 1979

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William Cross

Sergeant William Cross was fatally stabbed while assisting other officers during a disturbance at the Washington State Penitentiary in Walla Walla, Washington.

One inmate was convicted of second-degree murder in connection with Sergeant Cross' death. The inmate committed suicide in his cell after being convicted. A second inmate, who was the brother of the convicted inmate, was acquitted of murder charges.

Sergeant Cross had served with the Washington State Department of Corrections for seven years. He was survived by his wife, parents, and brother.

Bio

Age 33
Tour 7 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Stabbed
Weapon Edged weapon
Offender Committed suicide

correctional Facility, prisoner custody, officer assistance

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God of Justice, I am grateful for the lives and sacrifices of all America’s Peace Officers. They died serving us. Help us never forget. Help us celebrate their lives and honor their sacrifices. Be with the families of these fallen peace officers. Comfort them and give them Your strength and peace. Guide us as we seek to take care of the families of these fallen heroes. May we care for them with integrity. In commemorating the deaths of these fallen heroes, help us also to remember that death is not the end. Death does not have the final say, but is simply the transition from this earthly life to the heavenly life yet to come. This assurance was guaranteed to all believers upon the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. We look forward to that life to come with joy and anticipation. Thank You, Lord God, for hearing this prayer. In the mighty and holy name of Christ Jesus, Your dear Son, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scripture References:

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” [Psalm 23:4 ESV]

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” [John 3:16 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, NACM
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
Member: Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers
Merrimack, NH 03054

Captain Steven R. Closs (Retired)
Nashua NH Police Department (1974-1998)

June 15, 2025